Rome was not built in a day. Every masterpiece requires efforts to make things perfect. However, in some cases, despite all sincere efforts, the art simply remains art; it does not become a masterpiece. This can lead to frustration, low self-esteem and reduced self-confidence and roadblocks.

The path to success or achieving a goal is never easy. Every task or goal has its unique challenges.

In situations like these, quotes of people who have achieved monumental success in different walks of life serve as a source of inspiration and help in keeping us in good stead. Despite repeated failures and all sorts of adversities, they never gave up hope and continued to work hard with the 'never say die' spirit. Showing a positive attitude during stressful times at any point of time in our life will make a big difference.

Why do negative thoughts hold sway at times?  Swami Sivananda says that   uncontrolled thoughts render the mind weak as a result It has often been observed that when you are absorbed in studying a book at 7 pm the expectation of pleasure at watching a cricket match on TV at 8 pm distracts your attention every now and then the will is thus buried.

Paramhansa Yogananda says that man's brain is full of 'cant's' which have to be cauterized in order to be successful in life. You have within you the power to accomplish everything you want; that power lies in the will.

Introspection particularly in morning will tell us that each of our habits creates a specific 'groove' in the brain and that these patterns make us behave in a certain way, often against our wish. However, through the practice of concentration and meditation, one can neutralise It is therefore of paramount importance to review one's thoughts for at least15 minutes every day. For example, thoughts of hatred and anger should be controlled by generating thoughts of   forgiveness, mercy and nonviolence; thoughts of pride and  arrogance should  be eradicated greed and possessiveness should be dispelled by pursuit of  magnanimity,  contentment and non-covetousness; jealousy and meanness should be replaced with thoughts  of love and generosity.

Aristotle says: "The energy of the mind is the essence of life. It is our attitude which brings in thoughts and shows us the true outlook of life. Lots of patience is required to maintain a positive attitude. One must remember that we become whatever we think. So, we must give everything to prevent negative thoughts replacing positive thoughts". Indeed, it has been rightly said: "As a man thinketh, so he becometh"!